A useful combination of HDD and DVD technology, complemented by good video quality, makes this camcorder a winner.

The GZ-HD30 is unquestionably the best consumer-level HD camcorder that JVC has ever produced. Sporting 80GB of inbuilt memory, AVCHD/MPEG-2 TS recording capabilities and an impressive low-light performance, it is bound to put a smile on most videographers' faces.

A good bet for the casual user.

The DC40 is an excellent DVD video camera.

The HDR-CX12 is a brilliant high-def handycam that is almost impossible to find fault with. It improves on its CX7K predecessor in nearly every area and is easily a match for Sony's high-end HDR-SR12 model. If you don't mind the lack of an inbuilt hard drive, it won't disappoint.

For an AVCHD removable flash memory camcorder, the HF10 is close to flawless. It offers superior video performance, better build quality and more modes and features than any of its high-def rivals. Highly recommended.

A very reasonable alternative for those who want a digital camcorder without the hassle of carrying around spare media.

A decidedly functional camera, delivering a very solid performance across the board, although at times sacrificing performance for simplicity.

While not quite the prime grade beef of the industry, DVD camcorders have improved by leaps and bounds. If you have the technology to support it, this is a very solid product.

Despite being soundly beaten with the ugly stick, this is a quality piece of hardware capable of capturing beautiful high-def video. If you can get past the bulky design, you won't be disappointed.

The HDR-HC5E is a quality product, but it comes at a price. Despite a few flaws with colours, this camera performs very well in comparison to most camcorders. For those who can afford it, it's a great unit.

The good quality video and huge LCD are countered by the lack of manual options on this DVD camcorder.